A recent poll has revealed that a significant majority of U.S. voters are in favor of policies similar to those implemented in Oklahoma regarding transgender issues, including restrictions on transgender women in sports and limitations on gender transition treatments for minors. Conducted by Scott Rasmussen and RMG Research for the Napolitan News Service, the survey shows that these measures, which have sparked controversy in some circles, are gaining broad national support.
Oklahoma has been at the forefront of enacting laws that prohibit biological males from competing in women’s sports and restrict the use of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and gender-affirming surgeries for minors. The state’s legislation has been met with criticism from some who argue that such measures could lead to economic decline and drive people out of the state. However, new polling data suggests that these policies may be more in line with public sentiment than previously thought.
The survey, which sampled 1,000 registered voters nationwide, found that 75% of respondents oppose allowing transgender women (biological males who identify as women) to compete in women’s sports. Only 13% of voters supported the idea, and the figure represents a marked increase in opposition since 2022, when 64% of voters expressed disapproval. This shift in public opinion is largely attributed to growing concerns about fairness in athletics, particularly after high-profile cases of female athletes being outperformed by male competitors.
In addition, the poll revealed that 72% of voters believe it should be illegal to provide minors with gender transition treatments, including puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or gender-affirming surgeries. Only 18% of voters supported the idea of medical interventions for minors. Opposition to such procedures has been steadily increasing, up from 64% in June 2023, reflecting rising concerns about the long-term effects of gender transition treatments on children.
Oklahoma State Representative Toni Hasenbeck, who played a key role in drafting the legislation, expressed confidence in the policies, citing personal experiences and a deep belief that the laws were the right thing to do. “The fact that a majority of voters nationwide now support the policies we’ve implemented shows that we’re on the right track,” Hasenbeck said. “It strengthens my resolve to continue pushing for policies that reflect the values of our communities.”
The poll also found strong opposition to allowing transgender individuals access to sex-segregated spaces. 75% of voters opposed allowing transgender women to use women’s locker rooms, bathrooms, and showers, while 62% said they believe transgender women should not be allowed in women’s shelters for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
When it comes to education, the poll showed that 68% of respondents believe that discussions around changing gender identities should not be part of the public school curriculum, while 73% agreed that parents should be notified if their child wishes to change their gender or pronouns. This aligns with recent legislation in Oklahoma, which requires parental consent and involvement in gender-related decisions for minors in schools.
These findings suggest a growing national consensus that mirrors Oklahoma’s approach to handling transgender issues, and the state’s lawmakers appear to be responding to concerns shared by a majority of voters. As the debate over transgender rights continues to unfold across the U.S., it seems that policies restricting transgender participation in women’s sports and gender-affirming medical treatments for minors are gaining increasing support.
Despite the divisiveness of these issues, the latest survey underscores the power of public opinion in shaping state-level legislation. As more states follow Oklahoma’s lead, it remains to be seen how these policies will impact both local communities and broader national debates on gender identity and rights.
